When values align with purpose, the result can be both personally fulfilling and profoundly impactful. That was the experience of Tara Vassallo-Hackett, senior director of advancement at Adelphi University, who recently marked a career high point at the university’s 25th Anniversary Gala, held October 11 at the Garden City Hotel.

The event raised more than $1.2 million for the Bridges to Adelphi program, which supports neurodivergent students—those who self-identify as being on the autism spectrum or with other social communication differences. Now in its 11th year, Bridges has become a cornerstone of student success at Adelphi, offering academic, social and vocational support.

For Vassallo-Hackett, whose career has centered on fundraising in higher education, the connection between her work and her personal values has never been more apparent. “This is how philanthropy really connects to people and mission,” she reflects.

Funds raised at the Gala will help subsidize program participation fees and launch “Bridges from Adelphi,” a new initiative focused on post-graduate support. A key outcome of the evening was the establishment of a campus-based internship program for Bridges students—one that started with a donor’s belief in investing in professional development and has already launched placements in University Advancement and Communications.

The Gala was also a neuroinclusive celebration, featuring a sensory room designed by Northwell Health’s Bee Mindful program. Performances by Actionplay, a neurodivergent theater group, and soloist Mina Cuesta moved the audience to tears and earned standing ovations. Their energy, talent and joy underscored the evening’s core message: every student deserves to be seen, supported and celebrated. “You could feel the power in the room—raw, electric, uniting. The air buzzed with pride and recognition; it was more than applause.  In that moment everyone was the same, says Vassallo-Hackett.”

An advisory board of parents, alumni and friends of the university has also been formed to support Bridges through philanthropy and strategic guidance, ensuring the program’s continued evolution.

Vassallo-Hackett noted that she has attended more than a dozen university galas throughout her career, but none have felt as personally meaningful. “It was a perfect night to celebrate the many superpowers of our neurodivergent student community,” she says. “Having an event that was so student-centered and mission-focused—it’s exactly what value congruence feels like.”

To learn more or make a gift to the Bridges program, visit Adelphi.edu/gala